Tuesday, June 23, 2009

The Berlin Wall/20 Years Already?



I thought I would share with you today a piece of photographic art that is compelling visually and emotionally...

I was given this 'rare' work to present and sell in my Etsy shop, foundvintagestyle. It is the work of a photographer by the name of Elizabeth Frey. She was born in Germany and trained as a photographer in Berlin. She re-located to Canada in the '50's and had a career in photo-journalism.

Coming up on November 9th./2009 will be the 20th. anniversary of the demolition of the Berlin Wall. It was erected in 1961 in an effort to stop people from leaving East Germany for West Germany.

Elizabeth was there in 1989 for this historic event which held particular meaning for her. Being a photographer she naturally documented what she saw. This photograph of graffiti on the wall is full of the energy and emotion of the time. Additionally she carried back with her this chunk of the wall; about a 3" x 4" piece.

This duo makes a dynamic textural and visual work of art in the truest sense. It provokes thought and, to me, a sense of appreciation for what we at times take for granted...

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Spectacular post!...and thank you for making me feel so old...wow does 20 years go by quick!
Such a wonderful representation of history...with all of the vintage popularity, let's hope that some historical appreciation filters in:)
I also wanted to let you know that I've chosen your blog for the "One Lovely Blog Award"...if you'd like, please stop by for a peek of the details:)
Thanks for a great read!

Waterrose said...

How very cool. I lived in berlin from 1977 to 1980. I cried as I saw the wall coming down as I watched on tv. It was a joyous moment knowing that it would no longer be a city divided. Wow I just realized it's been 30 years since I was there. I remember standing on the platform looking at the wall, the graffiti and the guards on the other side...not even being able to imagine what it was like to live "over there."

Nice to visit with you again!

Amy said...

Truly amazing and poignant! Bravo for Elizabeth documenting this, a fantastic image. I think many of us can remember exactly where we were when we received word of this history altering event.

p.s. Wonderful post and blog, Carol! Thank you for dropping by mine earlier today. Your shops are lovely!
Amy